Planche rituelle "n'kita" ·  R. D. Congo, Teke, Tsaye · ID: 3042458

Description

light wood, matt black patina, kaolin, the frontside carved with various geometrical patterns, several drilled holes for attachment, dam., missing parts along rim, cracks, traces of weathering, waterspots (backside);
such boards were used for the “n’kita” ritual. Every sign on the board has a different symbolism and meaning. The board was attached to the bed of the woman who was chosen to be an oracle/medium for soothsaying. After the ritual most of these boards were burned.

Publications

AHDRC: 0142382